The justice system and the people are at odds in some ways.

A trial is held to determine two things.
   Is the defendant guilty or not?
   If so, what should the punishment be?

But what modern people want to know is -
   What could cause a criminal to do something so evil?
   How can we prevent a recurrence?
   How can we help the victim heal?

The trial may not address any of these issues. The first issue might be addressed by the defense, which could point out, for example, that the defendant is mentally ill or brain-damaged. Other causes ("She's a meth addict.") are likely to be swept under the rug.